Sometimes we want it all when it comes to a getaway. There is a need to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life but not be too far away from the action. A selection of activities to keep us entertained but also an easy pace of living. It’s not too much to demand. Radisson Hotels’ GCC experiences are striking the balance between relaxation and adventure with safaris, water sports, beach days and spa treatments across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. It’s time to say “yes” to it all.
THE GREAT OUTDOORS
Embrace your wild side and get back to nature with Nofa Riyadh, A Radisson Collection Resort. Situated 45 minutes from the capital Riyadh, the hotel’s location sees skyscrapers give way to verdant lawns, shifting sand dunes and rugged mountains. Emphasis is on outdoor living with the property’s adjoining wildlife park offering the opportunity for guests to catch a glimpse of Grévy zebras, Arabian Oryx and giraffes, as well as a bird centre for passionate ornithologists. Keep the alfresco activity going by taking the reins at the nearby equestrian centre or enjoy a round of 18 at Nofa Golf Club.
When it’s time to head indoors, guests can relax in one of the African safari-inspired private villas, replete with their own private heated pool, Jacuzzi and garden. Gourmands have the pick of seven venues to satisfy their cravings including specialist sushi restaurant Aji Sushi Lounge and the gueridon service of The Butcher’s Den for carnivores. The 57-key resort also boasts an Amani Spa & Wellness centre with separate female and male spas that include a hammam, an aroma steam room and a vitality pool. There’s also plenty to keep little ones entertained with a children’s adventure park, bowling alley and cinema.
COASTAL CHIC
A traditional port for oil exports, the Saudi Arabian city of Khobar is emblematic of the Kingdom’s push to diversify and quickly becoming a hotspot for luxury resorts. Spotlighting this new direction, Radisson Blu Resort, Al Khobar Half Moon Bay presents a sophisticated escape from city life. The elegant enclave is only moments from the beach, so take advantage and soak up the sun on terra firma or take to the water and enjoy aquatic activities including sailing, diving and fishing.
Back on dry land, return to one of the 137 rooms, suites, chalets or villas. Choose a two-bedroom chalet and savour views of green fields or the Arabian Gulf from your balcony or private garden as well as a living area and 24-hour room service during your stay. For those keen on exploring, the resort is a short drive away from Dammam Corniche, which is packed with intriguing art installations and restaurants as well as one of the Kingdom’s largest shopping centres, Mall of Dharan, home to more than 400 retail outlets. After your day of retail therapy, retire to the spa for a soothing treatment or refresh with a swim in the outdoor pool.
AN IDYLLIC ISLAND ESCAPE
Centred on Ras Al Khaimah’s stylish Marjan Island, Radisson Resort Ras Al Khaimah Marjan Island invites guests to sample a taste of life by the sea. Gastronomes have six restaurants from which to choose. Start the day at RBG Restaurant with buffet breakfast before tucking into lunch at the aptly named La Med Bistro. Those with a preference for fresh seafood should place themselves at Seafood Shack or if you have a hankering for bar bites, cocktails, sports and sunsets, head to the RBG Bar, which offers panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf.
The resort is ideally located for exploring Ras Al Khaimah, where adventure beckons around every corner. The tallest mountain in the UAE and the world’s longest zipline are within a 90-minute drive, as is Wadi Shawka, where visitors can experience hiking, therapeutic hot springs and pool dips. Culture also plays a major role with the Ras Al Khaimah National Museum and Dhayah Fort — a lookout tower that stands on a 70-metre-high hill that rises between date palm gardens and Jebel Jais mountains — also highly recommended landmarks to visit. Or you could stay onsite and live the perfect beach getaway while the junior jetsetters are kept busy at the play area and designated kids’ pool.